Kenya Police Chief Denies State Role in Critic Abductions
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority continues to investigate as police and government officials maintain their denial of involvement.
NAIROBI, Kenya— Kenya's top police official denied government involvement in a series of reported abductions targeting critics, as two recently released victims detailed their alleged detention and abuse, writes Martha Nakhate.
"The National Police Service is not involved in any abduction, and there's no police station in the country that is holding the reported abductees," Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja told reporters.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has documented 82 abduction cases since June 2024, with only 29 resolved, according to the EastAfrican.
The incidents coincided with nationwide protests against a controversial finance bill.
People's Dispatch reported that many victims were targeted after criticising the government online, raising concerns about freedom of expression.
Two recently released victims came forward Tuesday. Gideon Kibet, a cartoonist known for satirising government figures, and Billy Mwangi, a 24-year-old student, told investigators they were held for two weeks in a dark room.
Mwangi reported being whipped and beaten during his detention.
The Independent Police Oversight Authority is investigating the cases. In August, the agency told parliament that 19 people were abducted during June protests that spread across 23 districts.
The demonstrations, largely organised by young people through social media, began peacefully but turned violent, resulting in property damage and casualties.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority continues to investigate as police and government officials maintain their denial of involvement.